‘Hiccup’ in political transition: ESM Goh commends DPM Heng’s ‘selflessness’ in stepping aside as 4G leader

SINGAPORE: Emeritus Senior Minister Goh Chok Tong said on Friday that he commends Deputy Prime Minister Heng Swee Keat for his “self-sacrifice” in stepping aside as leader of the 4G or fourth-generation leadership team.

Mr Heng, 60, said in April that he would remove himself as next-in-line to be prime minister, a surprise to many and a setback for succession plans. He cited his age as one of the reasons, and said that a younger leader with a “longer runway” should take over. “Show confidence and leadership as a group. Hone your political skills and prepare yourselves to take over the reins from the 3G. Deliberate carefully who amongst you should be the leader, and band together to support the leader once a decision is made,” he said.

"I do not believe that good leaders will automatically emerge in a democracy nor that the whims of elections can guarantee a slate of the best to govern the country," he said. “Singapore is a city state, not a big country. If able people fail to step out into the political arena or if we do not signal strong support for good leaders, Singapore’s drop will be more precipitous than its rise.”Standing Tall comes after the first volume of Mr Goh’s biography titled Tall Order, and recounts Mr Goh’s years as Singapore’s prime minister from 1990 to 2004.

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